Carcabuey

Found in the heart of Sierra Subbética natural preserve, the town of Carcabuey enjoys the privilege of rich natural resources and cultural assets - and visitors can enjoy too.

In Roman times, Carcabuey was one of the three most notable villages in the area. At that time the place was known as Ipolcobulcula. Numerous epigraphic findings as well as excavations of pottery kilns, oil presses, and other artifacts testify to meaning of the town in Roman times.

During the Middle Ages, particularly at the time when Catholic kings recaptured Spain, the area was the scene of numerous military conflicts. later, under the rule of the Fernández de Córdoba dynasty, Carcabuey experienced a significant upturn. Public and religious buildings were constructed, as well as squares and fountains. All these structures are still existent in their original shape, so Carcabuey is an authentic example of a settlement of that time.

In 19th and 20th centuries Carcabuey’s history is characterized by the incidences of that time, including social unrest, unemployment and civil war, resulting in a dramatic decline of population. It took until the 1960s, when life returned to Carcabuey. Along with Spain’s shift to a modern democracy, Carcabuey became a modern town, always keeping a close eye to its historic traces, traditions and customs.

Carcabuey CastleSitting on top of a hill and overlooking the area, the castle and fortress of Carcabey dates back to the 9th century, although today’s structure is the result of 13th and 14th century constructions. The castle has an irregular layout perfectly matching with the local topography.

Parroquía de la Asunción (Church of Resurrection)Found at the foot of castle hill, this site provides a wonderful view of Carcabuey. The church was built in the 14th century, with the bell tower, main retabel and Sagrario chapel being added later. Covered by a barrel-vault, the nave harbors many statues, paintings and other art works of outstanding value and beauty. A treasure is the statue of “Cristo de Ánimas”, created by Granada sculptor Alonso de Mena in 1624.

Iglesia de San Marcos (St. Marcus Church)This 16th century church harbors a remarkable altar screen, created by Juan de Dios Santaella. Also worth seeing are the paintings depicting St. Marcus and Francisco Javier Pedrajas. Impressive are the bell-tower as well as the entrance portal.

Castle ChapelBuilt in the 18th century, this small chapel is found in the courtyard of Carcabuey castle. With whitewashed walls it offers a pleasant contrast to the massive ashlar Medieval curtain wall. The chapel harbors an image of Virgen del Castillo, patron of the town.

Ermita de Santa Ana (Santa Anna Church)The so-called Ermita de Santa Ana is another emblematic site. The small church is located in the homonymous street and harbors an 18th century altar screen showing the image of Santa Anna. Another image seen there is that of Virgen de la Aurora (Virgin of Dawn) who is honored with the annual Toro de Cuerda festival.

Stret Altar of Virgen de las AngustiasThis street altar dates back to the 18th century. It harbors a wooden statue of Virgen de las Angustias. This shrine is unique in the province of Cordoba, since it has no owner. The community of Carcabueyans cares for cleaning and maintenance.

Fuente del Pilar (Stilt Fountain)This unusual 18th century fountain is comprised of four water basins arranged in the form of a shamrock.

El Aljibe (Cistern)For water supply the Carcabuey castle used to have to cisterns - one inside the fortress and the other at the open area in front of it. The latter is quasi intact and filled with water for the most time of the year. Due to its location between the castle and Carcabuey and its enormous holding capacity it is believed that this cistern not only served the castle, but the town, as well.

El Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge)Constructed of ashlars forming one arch, this bridge spans Palancar River. It is the only caliphale relic in the southern privince of Cordoba.

El Monte Calvario (Calvario Mountain)This hill offers a spectacular view over the entire town of Carcabuey and Sierra Subbética Natural Preserve. On top there is the Calvario Chapel.

Monument of Virgen del Castillo This monument is found at the upper end of Calle Castillo, or Castle Street, half-way between Church of Resurrection and castle. It is a fountain with mosaic image of Virgen del Castillo, Carcabuey’s patron.